Zimbabwe is set to embark on a landmark clean energy project with the announcement of the Kariba Floating Solar Power plant, a massive 600 Megawatt (MW) initiative planned for Lake Kariba. Speaking on the project, the Honourable Minister Masuka confirmed that the scheme will be wholly funded through private sector investment, positioning it as a major component of the nation’s drive toward energy self-sufficiency and modernization.
The project represents a groundbreaking development for the country, which has traditionally relied on hydroelectric power from the very same lake and coal-fired thermal plants. The Minister hailed the scheme, stating: “The Kariba Floating Solar power plant is a novel development for Zimbabwe.”
He further highlighted the technical advantages of the location, adding, “It will be the first floating solar and scientists and engineers tell us that solar on water is more efficient than solar on land.” This enhanced efficiency is often attributed to the cooling effect of the water on the solar panels, which boosts power generation compared to land-based installations.
The ambitious 600 MW capacity will be rolled out strategically to ensure stable integration into the national grid. The entire project will be implemented in three phases over a five-year period. Phase 1, which will see the installation of an initial 150 MW, is scheduled to commence during the second quarter of 2026. This methodical, phased approach will allow the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) and other key infrastructure providers to manage the logistical demands of constructing such a large-scale marine energy facility.
Lake Kariba, already a major hub for hydropower generation, will now become a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s renewable energy future. Zimbabwe will utilize the vast surface area of the lake for solar generation, and can avoid using large tracts of land—often arable or ecologically sensitive—for ground-mounted solar farms. This dual function of the lake, serving both hydro and solar power, demonstrates an innovative approach to resource maximization.
The commitment to a phased, privately-funded rollout of 600 MW is expected to drastically alter Zimbabwe’s energy mix, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating the impact of drought-induced power cuts that frequently affect the output of the Kariba South Bank Hydroelectric Power Station. The Kariba Floating Solar Power plant is poised to become a flagship renewable energy project for Southern Africa, signalling Zimbabwe’s firm commitment to a greener, more resilient, and technologically advanced power system.